Jasmine's POV
"Would you still protect me now?"
The question escaped before I could think it through.
Dominic's eyes darkened, his thumb stilling against my palm.
"Without question."
"Even though I'm not seventeen anymore? Even though I can take care of myself?"
A slow smile curved his lips.
"Especially because you can take care of yourself. But that doesn't mean you should have to. Not alone."
My heart hammered against my ribs.
"What does that mean?"
"It means I'd still stand between you and anyone who tried to hurt you. But now..." He leaned closer, his voice dropping to something dangerously low. "I'd protect you in different ways."
Heat flooded my cheeks.
"Dominic."
"You asked." His grin turned playful, breaking the intensity. "Don't blame me for answering honestly."
I p
